“For the first shoot, I was very pregnant, and that wasn’t as scary,” she said in an interview. “I thought it would be, because I was big and rotund when I’m usually the opposite, but it was really comfortable because I felt almost like I was in costume. But for the second, I was two and a half months out from having a baby. I’m supposed to be tight and toned and strong, but I have a lot more work to do.”

Despite her initial nervousness, she received public praise for her confidence and fitness.

“I am so happy and relieved that people are receiving my pictures so warmly,” she told People Magazine. “I didn’t realize how vulnerable I’d feel upon the release of the photos. … I am happy and I am proud.”